Local News
Government Launches Dedicated Website to Track Progress on COI Recommendations
The Government of the Virgin Islands unveiled a specialised website designed to monitor the implementation of recommendations outlined in the Commission of Inquiry (COI) report.
Aligned with the Virgin Islands Modern Governance Approach, titled “Government Business at its Best,” introduced in July of the previous year, this initiative aims to further advance the execution of COI recommendations.
In response to the United Kingdom’s appointment of Commissioner The Rt. Hon. Sir Gary Hickinbottom on 19th January 2021, to investigate potential corruption and misconduct by public officials, the inquiry resulted in 50 recommendations aimed at elevating governance standards and optimising the operations of law enforcement agencies in the Territory.
Premier of the Virgin Islands, Honourable Dr. Natatio D. Wheatley, reported in September 2023 that comprehensive work had commenced on all COI recommendations. Updates included completed reviews and audits covering areas such as Social Assistance Grants, Education Grants, Crown Lands Disposal, Residence and Belonger Status Policies, and Statutory Board reappointments.
Addressing the Modern Governance Approach, Premier Wheatley explained, “This initiative seeks to inform and educate the public and stakeholders about the government’s ongoing reform initiatives beyond the Framework recommendations. It aims to rectify inaccurate perceptions and aligns with the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.”
As part of ongoing efforts to demonstrate the impact of reform, the COI Recommendations Implementation Tracker website is set to launch on 3rd January 2024. The introduction will take place during the live airing of the government programme ‘Table Talk’ at 11:00 a.m. on various platforms, including the Government’s Facebook Page, ZBVI Radio 780AM, and CBN Radio.
Highlighting the importance of public awareness, Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe, emphasised, “It is crucial for the public to stay informed about the new policies transforming our business practices. This website will serve as a comprehensive resource for all COI-related information, allowing the public to track the progress towards greater accountability and transparency.”
The website will offer insights into the Framework for Implementation of COI Recommendations and other reforms, present an overview of the recommendations, and house press releases, statements, and additional information related to the Modern Governance Approach.
Expressing gratitude to public officers for their dedication, Mrs. Stoutt-Igwe urged the public to explore the website upon its launch, gain a deeper understanding of government operations, and reach out to the COI Implementation Unit with any questions or comments.
In an inspiring act of generosity, Russ Roschman, an avid animal lover, marked his birthday in an extraordinary way—by dedicating it to the furry residents of the BVI Humane Society. Instead of accepting gifts, Roschman launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised an impressive $2,500 for the shelter.
Roschman spent the day with the shelter’s animals, earning the gratitude of staff and the community alike. The funds raised will be directed toward the running costs of the current shelter, providing vital resources to care for the animals.
The BVI Humane Society, in a heartfelt post, expressed their appreciation, calling Roschman an “amazing animal lover” and extending a “big furball thanks” for his kindness.
This act of selflessness shines a light on the ongoing needs of shelters like the BVI Humane Society, which rely on donations and community support to provide essential care for animals in need. Roschman’s gesture is a reminder of the impact individuals can make, one paw at a time.
The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, signed into law by Governor Daniel Pruce on November 1, introduces significant changes to the Territory’s immigration policies. Among the most notable amendments is the doubling of the residency requirement for individuals seeking Belonger status, extending the period from ten to twenty years.
The legislation also establishes an Immigration Appeals Board to handle challenges and disputes, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the transparency and accountability of the immigration process. Premier Natalio Wheatley described the amendments as a step forward in refining the system. “We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and equitab
Governor Daniel Pruce
le,” the Premier said in a statement.
While the new law introduces robust measures to regulate and manage immigration, it has drawn mixed reactions. One key point of contention is the lack of new pathways for children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. Critics argue that this omission leaves a gap in addressing a demographic often caught in legal limbo.
The amended law also tasks a newly created Quota Setting Committee with advising the Board of Immigration on annual quotas for residence and Belonger certificates. This ensures that quotas align with the Territory’s capacity and strategic objectives.
However, the law is not yet in effect. It will commence on a date to be announced by the Premier in the official Gazette. Applications submitted before this date will be processed under the previous legal framework, providing clarity for those already in the system.
The government has framed these changes as part of its broader strategy to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for the Virgin Islands. “These amendments are designed to support the Territory’s long-term goals while maintaining fairness for all residents,” a government statement emphasised.
Tola Radio VI 100.5 FM, known as “the people’s radio,” has been off the air for 14 days amidst a legal standoff with Caribbean Cellular Telephone Limited (CCT). Managing Director Floyd P. Burnett, also known as “Heritage,” is urging public support as the station navigates what he describes as a targeted attack on freedom of speech and locally-owned businesses.
Mr. Burnett alleges that despite meeting all payment requirements and deadlines, CCT refused to accept Tola Radio’s payment and later disabled the station’s broadcasting equipment. “They physically touched our equipment and locked them off, despite written legal letters asking and instructing it not to be done,” he stated.
The dispute follows CCT’s October announcement terminating its service agreement with the radio station. CCT clarified that Tola Radio could retain its services if it became a paying customer, but according to Burnett, his payment was rejected without justification.
The controversy escalated when Burnett claimed an attempt was made to have him arrested and charged with attempted murder. “The public was to wake up and hear the radio off along with hearing I was arrested and charged, but God is greater than man!” he said.
Efforts to secure an extension for relocating Tola Radio’s equipment were also denied, Burnett said. Additionally, an urgent injunction filed in the High Court was postponed by a visiting judge until November 22 without hearing any arguments.
The ongoing shutdown has left eight employees without income, caused significant financial losses, and breached client agreements. Burnett criticized government officials for their lack of action, accusing them of failing to address the issue despite the government being a major client of CCT.
“Like most problems facing the BVI, they can’t [find] no way to help us! Even though the government is the tower people’s biggest client,” Burnett remarked.
Burnett is calling on the public to boycott CCT in protest. “Plug out the phone, plug out the chip, don’t pay your bill! We need to make a statement to corporate BVI today!” he urged.
He framed the situation as a broader fight for “freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and freedom of information,” asserting that the attack on Tola Radio sets a dangerous precedent for other local businesses.
Despite the challenges, Burnett assured Tola Radio’s listeners and partners that the station will resume broadcasting soon. “We will be back on air shortly, hopefully before the day is out,” he promised.
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